[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 120 (Thursday, September 12, 2013)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1300] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] CONGRATULATING BOY SCOUTs OF AMERICA TROOP 150 ON THE OCCASION OF ITS 85TH ANNIVERSARY ______ HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY of virginia in the house of representatives Thursday, September 12, 2013 Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Boy Scouts of America Troop 150 on the occasion of its 85th anniversary. Boy Scouts of America is one of the largest youth organizations in the United States, with more than 4.5 million current members. Since its founding, nearly 84 million boys have participated in scouting. Founded in 1928, Troop 150 was the first Boys Scout Troop in Fairfax County and remains one of the longest-standing active troops in the country. Since its founding, every meeting, including the very first which consisted of only 10 boys, has been held at the Annandale United Methodist Church. The relationship between the church and Troop 150 not only has endured; it has grown. The Annandale United Methodist Men have been the predominate partner over the years. The first Scoutmaster, John Walter Mercer, is buried at the church cemetery, and a memorial fund bearing his name was created 20 years ago by John Webb, an original member of Troop 150. This fund sponsors annual trips designed to develop the leadership potential of deserving scouts. Troop 150 plays a prominent role in the wider community as well. The Troop 150 Color Guard leads the annual Annandale Parade and also has performed this honor for Tee Ball on the South Lawn at the White House. Troop 150 has built community gardens, collected food for the needy, repaired trails, and participated in many other projects for the betterment of the community. More than 80 young men from this troop have earned the rank of Eagle Scout. Many of our country's greatest leaders have been scouts, and having been a scout, especially reaching the rank of Eagle Scout, is an achievement that is highly prized by our Military Service Academies. Scouting develops leadership skills and ethics that foster future success in life. Troop 150 exemplifies the values and tenets of the Boy Scouts of America and supports the character development that encourages responsible citizenship and self-reliance. Members of this troop adhere to the Scout Law: ``A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent'' and by the Scout Slogan: ``Do a good turn daily.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Boy Scout Troop 150 on the occasion of its 85th anniversary and in thanking its Scoutmaster, volunteers, family members, and community sponsors for their commitment to our children. ____________________